Effect of water deprivation on the bioavailability of ampicillin trihydrate

ABSTRACT

The influence of fluid volume on the relative bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of ampicillin from a solid dosage form has been studied in healthy male volunteers. Plasma ampicillin levels were analyzed assuming a one-compartment linear model with first order absorption and absorption delay. The results showed little or no effect of dehydration versus normal state on ampicillin absorption as evidenced by peak plasma levels [3.10 micro g/ml dehydration, 3.11 micro g/ml normal state] and area under the plasma level versus time curve [12.49 micro g/ml-hr dehydration, 11.13 /micro g/ml-hr normal state]. These results confirm the reliable absorption of orally administered ampicillin in water deprivated as well as in normal state